Job Description
Join NextGen Horizons Inc. at the forefront of tomorrow's transformation. We're seeking a visionary Futurist Innovation Lead to architect our 2026 strategic roadmap. This pivotal role demands a strategic thinker who can decode emerging technologies, societal shifts, and market disruptions to position our organization as an industry pioneer. You'll collaborate with C-suite executives, R&D pioneers, and global innovation labs to transform foresight into actionable blueprints.
Our Austin-based innovation hub offers a dynamic environment where you'll lead cross-functional teams in developing predictive models, scenario-planning frameworks, and disruptive product roadmaps. If you thrive at the intersection of technology, sociology, and business strategy, and possess an insatiable curiosity about what's next, this is your moment to shape the future.
Responsibilities
- Lead horizon scanning initiatives to identify disruptive technologies and market trends through 2026
- Develop and implement strategic foresight frameworks for product development and market positioning
- Coordinate with global R&D teams to integrate emerging innovations into core business strategy
- Present future scenario analyses to executive leadership and board stakeholders
- Design and facilitate innovation workshops for cross-functional teams
- Build and maintain partnerships with academic institutions, startups, and think tanks
- Quantify strategic opportunities through predictive modeling and market simulation
Qualifications
- Master's degree in Futures Studies, Strategic Innovation, or related field (PhD preferred)
- 7+ years in strategic planning, innovation management, or futurist consulting
- Proven expertise in scenario planning, trend analysis, and technology forecasting
- Deep knowledge of exponential technologies (AI, quantum computing, biotech)
- Exceptional communication skills for translating complex concepts to diverse audiences
- Experience leading cross-functional teams through innovation cycles
- Published research or thought leadership in futurism or innovation strategy